It’s funny how un-accepting we can be. We criticize, we judge, and just basically make no effort to understand when people are different from ourselves. Why is it so hard for us to accept what it different? Why can’t we allow others to be themselves?

What makes the world interesting is individuality. Be it Black, White, Straight, Gay, Married, Single, Thin, Thick Christian, Jewish or Muslim. Why can’t we allow others the express themselves the way they see fit as long as they are bringing no harm to others? But, more importantly, why can’t we appreciate, and be loving towards those that are different? Why can’t we educate ourselves and others on the things that we fear or don’t understand so that we will fear them no more?

I ask these questions because I notice that during the course of the day there is no person who does not experience, or witness some form of discrimination because they or someone else is in some way different in appearance or culture. Instead of blessing the spirit that stands before us, celebrating their individuality or maybe taking a moment to get a better understanding of the other person, we judge and in some cases, we harm. The truth is we are all different but in many ways the same.

We come from different times, cultures, backgrounds, and religions, but at the end of the day, we have to remember we are one. There is only a difference if you want there to be. Whatever our differences, they shouldn’t get in the way of anyone being loving, kind, considerate, or understanding. Every life from every race, social, economic background, and religion is valuable and should be respected for who they are and not feared for what we don’t understand.

Yes, we all run into those that do or wish to do harm to others, and those people come in all colors and religions, but it still does not call for judgment –just distance. You bless them and send them on their way. We will never really understand all that there is in the world, but my won’t it be fun trying.